West Germany vs Germany — 1978 vs 1973
| 911 SC Targa | 911 2.7 RS Carrera | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 196 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,994 cc | 2,687 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 5.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 146 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,557 lbs | 1,984 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,272 mm | 2,271 mm |
| Length | 4,291 mm | 4,147 mm |
| Units Produced | 58,914 | 1,580 |
| Original MSRP | $27,450 | $11,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 10/10 |
The 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Porsche 911 SC lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa with the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera reveals how Porsche refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 180 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 SC uses a Flat-6 SOHC displacing 2,994 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. The Porsche 911 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 573 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,580 units built, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911 SC's 58,914 examples. On the collector market, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera commands a significant premium over the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.